JOSE MOURINHO has told Sami Khedira that he wants to bring him to Chelsea on a free transfer next summer if he doesn't join Arsenal before then.

Arsene Wenger appeared to rule out a move for Khedira last week but reports over the weekend suggest a move could still be on the cards.

Khedira is entering the final year of his contract at Real Madrid and the Spanish giants are reluctant to see the player leave for nothing at the conclusion of this season.

Talks over a new deal at the Bernabeu have reportedly stalled because of the German international's wage demands and that could see Real forced to sell in a cut-price deal before the end of the transfer window.

But it seems that unless Real are prepared to offer a huge discount Chelsea are willing to play the waiting game.

Jose Mourinho wants to sign Sami Khedira on a free transfer

Reports in Spain suggest that Jose Mourinho has assured Khedira that there is a place for him at the Blues next season.

Mourinho and Khedira remain close having worked together during the Portuguese manager's time in charge at Real.

It now remains to be seen whether Chelsea's stance - an idea shared by Bayern Munich - spurs Real into action before the end of the month in a twist that could have significant benefits for Arsenal.